This is just a basic 12 inch granny square. I varied the squares based on the amount of yarn I had of any color. It's quite heavy and cozy warm. Cat tested and approved already.
Another photo of the afghan.
Here's the final photo of the 
It is Moving Day!
1 year ago
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Homespun Granny Afghan
Completed 12/25/2010! Here's my completed Games afghan. Begun during Opening Ceremonies, I finished it just after lunch today. The sewing up took longer than I thought it would (doesn't it always?). The afghan is 50x62 inches and made entirely from Lion brand Homespun in several colors. The goal of this project was to use up all these leftover skeins from other projects. Still have enough leftover to make a pillow.
This is just a basic 12 inch granny square. I varied the squares based on the amount of yarn I had of any color. It's quite heavy and cozy warm. Cat tested and approved already.
Another photo of the afghan.
This is just a basic 12 inch granny square. I varied the squares based on the amount of yarn I had of any color. It's quite heavy and cozy warm. Cat tested and approved already.
Another photo of the afghan.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
First Finish for Ravelympics!!
Finished the Team USA Olympic hat knock-off at noon today! This is an adaptation of the hats worn by Team USA members at the Opening Ceremonies.
I used size 5 needles and Vanna's Choice acrylic yarn with a stitch size of 5.5 per inch. This resulted in a hat just over 22 inches around. The pattern is Olympic Reindeer Hat by Helena Bristow and is a free pattern at Ravelry.
The hat is a little on the tall side. I plan to make an adaptation to use up the remaining yarn and to take the height down.
I used size 5 needles and Vanna's Choice acrylic yarn with a stitch size of 5.5 per inch. This resulted in a hat just over 22 inches around. The pattern is Olympic Reindeer Hat by Helena Bristow and is a free pattern at Ravelry.
The hat is a little on the tall side. I plan to make an adaptation to use up the remaining yarn and to take the height down.
Monday, February 22, 2010
More Progress on Games Projects
I've managed to finish all the squares for the Homespun Granny Afghan. Still to do is the weaving in of the ends, sewing or crocheting together and adding a final border. I expect to be done Tuesday or Wednesday. This Homespun stuff is SO soft.
Here's the progress on the Team USA hat. I am about 2 rows shy of the antlers. I hope to finish most of the knitting today. Already managed to find little flag appliques for those blank spots. I plan to make this hat again but with some changes. This hat is being made from Vanna's Choice yarn. It does knit nicely - was a good choice for an acrylic.
Here's the progress on the Team USA hat. I am about 2 rows shy of the antlers. I hope to finish most of the knitting today. Already managed to find little flag appliques for those blank spots. I plan to make this hat again but with some changes. This hat is being made from Vanna's Choice yarn. It does knit nicely - was a good choice for an acrylic.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Progress on Games Knitting
As you can see, a lot of afghan creation going on here. Five squares done and the remaining 15 at least partially done. I had originally planned to unwind a shawl that wasn't being used, but there was an outcry. So, I'm on hold until I get to the store tomorrow to buy another skein of brown. I tried one square without the brown and hated it, so back to Square 6. With the additional skein of yarn, the remaining squares should finish up quickly. I'm hoping for a Friday completion.
I started a Buffy potholder, but miscounted, so will be starting that again. Tomorrow, I will also get a start on the red socks. My hat project may be changed from the Snowboarder's cap to the US Olympic Team hat.
I started a Buffy potholder, but miscounted, so will be starting that again. Tomorrow, I will also get a start on the red socks. My hat project may be changed from the Snowboarder's cap to the US Olympic Team hat.
Stargate 1
Here's a washcloth I finished in early February. Any Stargate fan would recognize this symbol as the one for Earth. Wash dishes and find your way home, all with the same washcloth! On size 5 needles, it comes out 7 x 5.75 inches knitted in Sugar and Creme cotton yarn. I plan to rewrite the pattern to get a square closer to 9 inches. Original pattern by Megan Murray. The pattern is a free Ravelry download.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Let the Needlework Games Begin!
I'm in all 3 - Ravelympics2010, Ancient Crochet Games and UFOlympics.
My starting project tonight will be the granny afghan. It's mindless and doesn't require me to watch it much so that I can watch the Opening Ceremonies, followed by recording Caprica and then on to my Buffy marathon. The afghan is such a large project that I have it in both the Ravelympics and Crochet Games.
The Lacy Sock is my entry for the UFOlympics. It was my first toe up sock and I'd like to finish it first. It was after this sock that I tried and loved knitting with just 2 circs. I also am far less intimidated by the lace pattern. Even with my experience, it's hard to believe that I'm still intimidated doing what really are truly easy things. Rather than risk a change of gauge, I will continue to knit this on double pointed needles.
On the quilting front, in order to maintain my 1 hour of sewing or cutting without my machine, I cut up scraps yesterday and today. I have enough to do so again tomorrow. Gotta keep taming the scrapmonster.
Hey, I was excited to find out that KnitPicks has already shipped my order! Maybe I'll be able to start it next week!
My starting project tonight will be the granny afghan. It's mindless and doesn't require me to watch it much so that I can watch the Opening Ceremonies, followed by recording Caprica and then on to my Buffy marathon. The afghan is such a large project that I have it in both the Ravelympics and Crochet Games.
The Lacy Sock is my entry for the UFOlympics. It was my first toe up sock and I'd like to finish it first. It was after this sock that I tried and loved knitting with just 2 circs. I also am far less intimidated by the lace pattern. Even with my experience, it's hard to believe that I'm still intimidated doing what really are truly easy things. Rather than risk a change of gauge, I will continue to knit this on double pointed needles.
On the quilting front, in order to maintain my 1 hour of sewing or cutting without my machine, I cut up scraps yesterday and today. I have enough to do so again tomorrow. Gotta keep taming the scrapmonster.
Hey, I was excited to find out that KnitPicks has already shipped my order! Maybe I'll be able to start it next week!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Prepping and Fixing
I continue to get stuff ready for the Ravelympics. In light of that, I was at the yarn shop (All About Yarn) and bought some turquoise mohair for the Kitty Pi bed. $40. I was trying to choose between two blues, not terribly happy that they were so dark. One would have been $32 while the other was $63. Both were great yarns, but do I really want to spend $72 to over $100 on a cat bed? No. So, I went to Knitpicks.com. Bought some lovely blue mohair and Wool of the Andes for the base. Cost? $34. I will exchange the mohair tomorrow for something nice for me. Probably some sock yarn. It's not that I don't mind spending the money (I do, but it's for knitting!). I had 3 cats reject the last Kitty Pi bed. Fortunately, my sister's cats love their Kitty Pi bed. Without knowing whether my cats will simply prefer the latest shipping box from Amazon or the expensive, luxurious bed that I hand crafted for them, I'd rather spend less. However, as mentioned a couple of weeks ago, there is the chance that the yarn won't get here before the end of the Olympics. In that case, it will be a post-Olympics project.
Projects that are ready include the Homespun Granny Square afghan, the Robot, 2 socks in progress, snowboarder hat, Buffy potholder, sexy red sox and the shawl that will be deconstructed due to nonusage.
Brought my sewing machine in to the fix it guy (Gratz Sewing in Plymouth). He says it should be ready by Tuesday, so quilting future quilts will have to wait. Guess I'll have to focus on dealing with scraps and cutting stuff up instead of sewing for my 1 hour quilting work for a few days. Took the bad stitching out of the hulls of the Tall Ships quilt. I'm definitely looking at getting this machine replaced this year. Just don't know how much I can afford.
Projects that are ready include the Homespun Granny Square afghan, the Robot, 2 socks in progress, snowboarder hat, Buffy potholder, sexy red sox and the shawl that will be deconstructed due to nonusage.
Brought my sewing machine in to the fix it guy (Gratz Sewing in Plymouth). He says it should be ready by Tuesday, so quilting future quilts will have to wait. Guess I'll have to focus on dealing with scraps and cutting stuff up instead of sewing for my 1 hour quilting work for a few days. Took the bad stitching out of the hulls of the Tall Ships quilt. I'm definitely looking at getting this machine replaced this year. Just don't know how much I can afford.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Granny Square Afghan Project
During the Olympics, one of my major projects is a Granny Square Afghan made using up all remaining Homespun yarn. I will still need to buy both a black and a purple skein to make all the different colors play nicely together. I'll pick those up on Thursday. Pictured is my pattern sample - done in size K hook. The result is a 12 inch square. I'll need 20 of them for a full-sized afghan. I'm not so keen on that large black blob in the middle. It looks great with other colors, but with black, it's just a blob. Not a good choice.
The final afghan will be a gift for someone.
The final afghan will be a gift for someone.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
A Little Quilting, A Little Knitting
Yesterday, I struggled with the bunnies for Grandma's Bunnies. I have not yet declared defeat, but the glue to baste down the edges of a bunny applique just isn't working. I think I need that glue stick. Tomorrow, I'll get the background fabric and can start attaching one to see if I need to redo the others.
Today, I quilted the main part of the Tall Ships wallhanging. Lots of progress! I'm thinking of leaving the sails and the boat hull unquilted. I really like how the quilted area pops the unquilted area out. I'll decide tonight.
Tonight, I'm going to start the Star Trek potholders. I need to know how to do double-knitting for a project during the Ravelympics, and since the pattern is based on this one, I'll do Star Trek first. My sister has been nagging me for it. My other sister LOVED her Star Trek washcloth.
Today, I quilted the main part of the Tall Ships wallhanging. Lots of progress! I'm thinking of leaving the sails and the boat hull unquilted. I really like how the quilted area pops the unquilted area out. I'll decide tonight.
Tonight, I'm going to start the Star Trek potholders. I need to know how to do double-knitting for a project during the Ravelympics, and since the pattern is based on this one, I'll do Star Trek first. My sister has been nagging me for it. My other sister LOVED her Star Trek washcloth.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Floral Triple Irish Chain completed!
Yep. My goal was the end of the month and I made it, barely. Here's a photo of the completed quilt. The final quilt is 73x87 inches. I used Warm and Natural batting. Most of the fabric came from stash including the back! Woo hoo!! I meander quilted amongst all the floral fabrics and used an enlarged motif from Quiltmaker's Motif Book #1 for the center white squares. I echo quilted around them and finished off with meanders and leaves.
I completed the top right after the swap at QATW in April 2005. Pinned it in 2007. Yep. Takes me awhile, doesn't it?
Will update with better photo when the sun comes out again.
This is a very easy quilt to do. The directions at Quilter Cache are very good, but she is doing 2 inch strips and I did 2.5 inch.
http://www.quilterscache.com/T/TripleIrishChainBlock.html
This link has instructions closer to what I did using the 2.5 inch strips.
http://www.quilt.com/Blocks/IrishChain/IrishChain.html
I completed the top right after the swap at QATW in April 2005. Pinned it in 2007. Yep. Takes me awhile, doesn't it?
Will update with better photo when the sun comes out again.
This is a very easy quilt to do. The directions at Quilter Cache are very good, but she is doing 2 inch strips and I did 2.5 inch.
http://www.quilterscache.com/T/TripleIrishChainBlock.html
This link has instructions closer to what I did using the 2.5 inch strips.
http://www.quilt.com/Blocks/IrishChain/IrishChain.html
Friday, January 29, 2010
Jan Mid-month mystery washcloth
Can you tell that I got the camera back!? Here is my completed 'loopy' washcloth. I love this pattern! It looks great with variegated yarn! I used Sugar and Creme in Oriental. My washcloth was coming out rectangular (I have no idea why), so I added an additional section of pattern to square it up. My Mom is keeping this one. She actually likes using these thick washcloths for hotpads to take things out of the oven by folding them in half.
Here's a link to the pattern which is known as "I'm Loopy".
http://gimpykatkpatterns.blogspot.com/2010/01/im-loopy.html
Here's a link to the pattern which is known as "I'm Loopy".
http://gimpykatkpatterns.blogspot.com/2010/01/im-loopy.html
Oak Leaf Wash Cloth
Yes, these things are just addictive. Here's a Oak leaf washcloth in Lion kitchen cotton. It's a wonky 6.5x8.5 using 5 circs. The original pattern indicates a square, so I don't know why I have a rectangle. Sis is getting this one too (she said she needed washcloths).
Originally, I listed this as a Maple Leaf washcloth. My mistake. Here's the pattern.
Originally, I listed this as a Maple Leaf washcloth. My mistake. Here's the pattern.
Ode to Crew Member Number 6
Yes, I've seen Galaxy Quest too often. I saw this little washcloth and said, yes, my sister would want that. I plan to make this again for myself - maybe out of a premium cotton along with a hand towel.
This particular washcloth was made using Lion brand kitchen cotton in red using size 5 circs and is about 8 inches square - a good washcloth size. I am a loose knitter, so keep that in mind when estimating size.
Pattern can be found here.
http://milotis.wordpress.com/2006/05/08/baby-trekkie-washcloth/
This particular washcloth was made using Lion brand kitchen cotton in red using size 5 circs and is about 8 inches square - a good washcloth size. I am a loose knitter, so keep that in mind when estimating size.
Pattern can be found here.
http://milotis.wordpress.com/2006/05/08/baby-trekkie-washcloth/
Thursday, January 28, 2010
More Quilting!!
I finished the quilting, trimmed and added the binding to the front of the Floral Irish Chain. I only need to sew the binding to the back and done! In addition, I've completed removing all the quilting from the Tall Ships wallhanging. I'm ready to start quilting that as well. It's a UFO dating from 1993 or 94.
Floral Irish chain top and Tall Ships Wallhanging - Unfinished tops
During the Olympics, I just want to machine sew, no cutting or handwork, to save my hands for lots of knitting and crocheting. These are some of the projects I'm considering. The first, Courthouse Steps, is actually 3 large pieces. It's a modified quilt-as-you-go. Way easier to quilt such a large quilt! Just needs to be sandwiched in 3 sections to be ready to go since I have all those pins from the Irish Chain. The second is the fishbowl quilt. All pinned, ready to go. Finally, is the waterfall quilt (I photographed it upside down!). Just need to decide in advance how I want to quilt it. At one time, I wanted to do freehand leaves (a leaf waterfall), but I realize that it is beyond my skills at this point. ALL of these are UFOs: Courthouse steps was completed in 2007, Fishbowl quilt top done in 2004 and PINNED in 2007 (blush), and finally, the waterfall quilt was a mystery quilt completed in 2006. Finishing any of these will complete one part of my New Year's resolutions (finishing at least 2 bed sized UFOs)!!
Courthouse Steps, Fishbowl and Waterfall (upside down) - All Unfinished tops
Searches for yarn and stuff for the Ravelympics continues. Team BuffyStakedEdward will have an appropriately themed potholder. Team TrueBlood will have blood red socks (Woolease) with black eyelash yarn trim. Team MN will be the Robot. I'll have to figure out where to put the rest. I really should be a member of the Team Overcommitted, don't you think? :)
Floral Irish chain top and Tall Ships Wallhanging - Unfinished tops
During the Olympics, I just want to machine sew, no cutting or handwork, to save my hands for lots of knitting and crocheting. These are some of the projects I'm considering. The first, Courthouse Steps, is actually 3 large pieces. It's a modified quilt-as-you-go. Way easier to quilt such a large quilt! Just needs to be sandwiched in 3 sections to be ready to go since I have all those pins from the Irish Chain. The second is the fishbowl quilt. All pinned, ready to go. Finally, is the waterfall quilt (I photographed it upside down!). Just need to decide in advance how I want to quilt it. At one time, I wanted to do freehand leaves (a leaf waterfall), but I realize that it is beyond my skills at this point. ALL of these are UFOs: Courthouse steps was completed in 2007, Fishbowl quilt top done in 2004 and PINNED in 2007 (blush), and finally, the waterfall quilt was a mystery quilt completed in 2006. Finishing any of these will complete one part of my New Year's resolutions (finishing at least 2 bed sized UFOs)!!
Courthouse Steps, Fishbowl and Waterfall (upside down) - All Unfinished tops
Searches for yarn and stuff for the Ravelympics continues. Team BuffyStakedEdward will have an appropriately themed potholder. Team TrueBlood will have blood red socks (Woolease) with black eyelash yarn trim. Team MN will be the Robot. I'll have to figure out where to put the rest. I really should be a member of the Team Overcommitted, don't you think? :)
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Quilting and More Project Scrounging
On the quilting front, I continue to complete motifs on the Floral Irish Chain. I would post a photo but it seems Windows 7 has no photo editing software to allow me to shrink the size of the file. Until I can find something, I can't upload any more photos because it's taking up all my space! Not to mention, it makes it harder for people without DSL to see the photos. Yesterday, I bought fabric for the binding. A lovely floral pattern that looks nice with the back as well. I still hope to finish the quilting by Saturday. Tomorrow or Saturday morning, I plan to work on prepping the binding. I also have to work out what I plan to work on during the Olympics and still maintain my 1 hour a day of quilting.
On the Ravelympics front, I'm having some problems about the cat bed. Seems the yarn I bought for this project a year ago was the wrong type of yarn and insufficient yardage for the updated Pi Cat Bed. I thought of using yarn from an old sweater kit. Still an option, but I have no clue how well it felts. Still doesn't solve the lack of mohair. My checking balances says that I can't complete my order to Knitpicks for new yarn until I get paid - 2 days before the Opening Ceremonies. So, I can choose to HOPE the yarn will arrive in time to work on the project, or pay a lot more and buy yarn locally. Either way, it likely won't be my first project. Darn it.
On the plus side, I found more Homespun. Just need to find the 2 black ones and that will become a Ravelypmics afghan project!
On the Ravelympics front, I'm having some problems about the cat bed. Seems the yarn I bought for this project a year ago was the wrong type of yarn and insufficient yardage for the updated Pi Cat Bed. I thought of using yarn from an old sweater kit. Still an option, but I have no clue how well it felts. Still doesn't solve the lack of mohair. My checking balances says that I can't complete my order to Knitpicks for new yarn until I get paid - 2 days before the Opening Ceremonies. So, I can choose to HOPE the yarn will arrive in time to work on the project, or pay a lot more and buy yarn locally. Either way, it likely won't be my first project. Darn it.
On the plus side, I found more Homespun. Just need to find the 2 black ones and that will become a Ravelypmics afghan project!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
More Planning for Ravelympics
I joined another team!! I am now also a member of Team True Blood. Haven't figured out what is going where and I need to do a little swatching. Obviously, I can't do ALL of the projects in bold below, but I am making a list of those things where I have everything. In order to also participate in Crochetville's Ancient Crochet Games, I also need to pick a crochet project. If I can't find the homespun, I'm going to do the felted bear and I hope I have the yarn to do that. I'm really trying to avoid buying anything.
Aerial Unwind - reclaim the yarn from an unloved project.
Bag Jump - tote bag
Felting Freestyle - crocheted & felted bear
Free Dance - anything that doesn't fit other categories
Giant Slalom-ghan - Homespun granny square - found 4 skeins
Hat Halfpipe - hats - Snowboarder Hat
Single Skein Speed Skate -Ripple Pillow
Sock Hockey - Wendy's basic socks in Deborah Norville Serenity Sock Yarn (red/pink)
Stash Compulsory Dance - use of long neglected stash. I'll have to check. Most of these skeins are more complicated projects.
WIPs-Dancing - Second sock or Fuzzy socks (Knitty pattern)
Here are the MUST entries.
Bobsled - Pet projects - Wendy's Pi bed
Platter Lift - Buffy hotpad (Official entry for Team BuffyStakedEdward)
Skelegurumi - Robot
Aerial Unwind - reclaim the yarn from an unloved project.
Bag Jump - tote bag
Felting Freestyle - crocheted & felted bear
Free Dance - anything that doesn't fit other categories
Giant Slalom-ghan - Homespun granny square - found 4 skeins
Hat Halfpipe - hats - Snowboarder Hat
Single Skein Speed Skate -Ripple Pillow
Sock Hockey - Wendy's basic socks in Deborah Norville Serenity Sock Yarn (red/pink)
Stash Compulsory Dance - use of long neglected stash. I'll have to check. Most of these skeins are more complicated projects.
WIPs-Dancing - Second sock or Fuzzy socks (Knitty pattern)
Here are the MUST entries.
Bobsled - Pet projects - Wendy's Pi bed
Platter Lift - Buffy hotpad (Official entry for Team BuffyStakedEdward)
Skelegurumi - Robot
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Ravelympics Preparations
If you knit or crochet, you probably know that the Ravelympics 2010 is soon to begin. I am a member of two teams: Team Minnesota and Team Buffy Staked Edward. See the cool logo? Team MN doesn't have one yet. You Twilight fans - don't get too upset. I am also thinking of joining Team TrueBlood. Buffy will likely stake Eric and Bill as well.
I have only seen a smattering of Buffy shows, so purchased, used, the entire Buffy and Angel series. I plan to marathon watch during the Olympics as they only cover my favorite skiing events at odd times. I really like watching the skiing and fancy skating.
I plan to do multiple SMALL projects this time around. I don't have to buy any yarn and I have all the tools. Nothing to buy. The only project I'm concerned about is the kitty Pi bed. I want to use Wendy Johnson's NEW pi bed pattern. I copied it from a book at the library and now can't find the pattern and the book has been checked out by someone else!! I made the old pattern (Huff and Spitty, my sister's cats, are featured on her gallery pages). If I can't find the pattern instructions, I'll just have to pass on this project until I can get the book again.
Here are the potential events I will be participating in. Obviously, I will ultimately only participate in 3 or 4, but it gives me a basis to figure out where I have the patterns, yarn and tools. For instance, my search for Homespun yarn last night produced only 3 skeins. I'm thinking that I may have sold that stuff in last year's garage sale. Hmm.. I'll have to check the pictures to see if it was on the tables (photos taken for scrapbook included the crafts table). The items in BOLD I've already decided to do and have everything in the Olympics bag (from the Atlanta Games).
Aerial Unwind - reclaim the yarn from an unloved project.
Bag Jump - tote bag
Bobsled - Pet projects - Wendy's Pi bed
Felting Freestyle - crocheted & felted bear
Free Dance - anything that doesn't fit other categories
Giant Slalom-ghan - afghan - Crocheted granny square lapsized afghan in Homespun yarn
Hat Halfpipe - hats - I have kit I bought last year. I could maybe finish it while there is still snow?
Platter Lift - home decor. I wonder if this includes washcloths?
Single Skein Speed Skate - uses one skein. I have a pillow to make! Or a washcloth.
Skelegurumi - toys - my robot fits here.
Sock Hockey - socks - a simple sock from Wendy's sock book
Stash Compulsory Dance - use of long neglected stash. I'll have to check. Most of these skeins are more complicated projects.
WIPs-Dancing - any WIPs/UFOs I will have socks in this category. I have several second socks I can make.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Progress on Projects
I'm happy to report that I'm typing to you from a brand new computer!! Seems many of the problems I was having were do to a failing motherboard. So, I now have a spiffy new computer. Alas, not everything is loaded up yet (especially Itunes). Since I was mostly deprived of computer time this week, I made up for it in progress on projects.
Quilting: I'm working on 2 UFOs and a new project. I have done about 80% of the quilting on my Floral Triple Irish Chain from last Spring. Mostly meander quilting, but I'm putting a nice motif in the white centers. I am also working on my 2nd oldest UFO. I believe I started it in 1994. This was a ship wallhanging that had really bad quilting on it due to a failing sewing machine. I've spent just tons of time removing all that quilting and finished tonight. This week, I hope to complete the quilting on both of these items. My new project is Grandma's Bunnies. I have cut all 27 bunnies from freezer paper and am in the process of making kits to work on when watching TV. The pattern is from Darcy Ashton. You can still get it from her site at http://www.ashtonpub.com/patterns.htm#GB.
Grandma's Bunnies by Darcy Ashton (an applique quilt)
Knitting: Trying to finish a complete pair of socks! Am too easily distracted by washcloths.
Crochet: Have 4 more ladybug black bodies to attach. I discovered that I failed to crochet around the wings, so am fixing that as well as making spots and attaching them. This week's goal is to complete the ladybug blocks. Then I can work the flowers.
Cross-stitch: Not a darn thing. Gotta get my act together on this!
Quilting: I'm working on 2 UFOs and a new project. I have done about 80% of the quilting on my Floral Triple Irish Chain from last Spring. Mostly meander quilting, but I'm putting a nice motif in the white centers. I am also working on my 2nd oldest UFO. I believe I started it in 1994. This was a ship wallhanging that had really bad quilting on it due to a failing sewing machine. I've spent just tons of time removing all that quilting and finished tonight. This week, I hope to complete the quilting on both of these items. My new project is Grandma's Bunnies. I have cut all 27 bunnies from freezer paper and am in the process of making kits to work on when watching TV. The pattern is from Darcy Ashton. You can still get it from her site at http://www.ashtonpub.com/patterns.htm#GB.
Grandma's Bunnies by Darcy Ashton (an applique quilt)
Knitting: Trying to finish a complete pair of socks! Am too easily distracted by washcloths.
Crochet: Have 4 more ladybug black bodies to attach. I discovered that I failed to crochet around the wings, so am fixing that as well as making spots and attaching them. This week's goal is to complete the ladybug blocks. Then I can work the flowers.
Cross-stitch: Not a darn thing. Gotta get my act together on this!
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Winter Fun Quilt Done!
Finished the Winter Fun wallhanging yesterday. The final piece is just shy of 52x52 inches. The blocks are from the Winter Fun block exchange at QuiltingAroundTheWorld.com last year. The only thing missing from this is a button for the door. Mom says she has one, so it will be added later. I did a lot of different freeform quilting on this and learned that I need to do them much larger or prewash the batting if I want it to show up as intended. Still, my goal for different textures did work nicely.
Closeup of quilting. Used a lot of feathers and a sun center. I left some of the dark blue areas unquilted so that they would pop after washing and yes, they do.
Closeup of quilting and open space. Quilted snowflakes and more areas, such as flying geese, left unquilted to pop. This was a fun project to practice on. Hope the Spring one comes out as good!
Closeup of quilting. Used a lot of feathers and a sun center. I left some of the dark blue areas unquilted so that they would pop after washing and yes, they do.
Closeup of quilting and open space. Quilted snowflakes and more areas, such as flying geese, left unquilted to pop. This was a fun project to practice on. Hope the Spring one comes out as good!
Snowman Washcloth
Did this for a KAL in December. Cute but too big and awkward for a washcloth. Mom will use it for a decoration. This is the first time I ever made baubles in knitting. As you can see, I need practice to get some consistency.
Friday, January 01, 2010
Happy New Year!!!
Happy New Year my fellow blog readers!
Yes, I have some resolutions this year. I hope they are not overly ambitious, but they do give some direction:
Quilting Resolutions:
1. Use up all Halloween fabric.
2. Finish 2 bed sized UFOs.
3. Finish 5 PIGS (tops only)
4. Use up 100 yards of stash fabric (quilts, curtains, pillowcases, etc)
5. Find a better source than Joann's for 45 mm blades.
6. Work on something quilt related for 1 hour each day.
Yes, I have some resolutions this year. I hope they are not overly ambitious, but they do give some direction:
Quilting Resolutions:
1. Use up all Halloween fabric.
2. Finish 2 bed sized UFOs.
3. Finish 5 PIGS (tops only)
4. Use up 100 yards of stash fabric (quilts, curtains, pillowcases, etc)
5. Find a better source than Joann's for 45 mm blades.
6. Work on something quilt related for 1 hour each day.
I hope this isn't too ambitious, but of course, if I finish item 1, item 4 is a shoe in. I'm also kindof fed up with Joann's. Maybe it's not their fault but they never seem to have 45mm blades in stock, even for non-sale weeks. When they do, they are only the individual blades, not the 5 pack. This year, I need more than one 5 pack of blades, so the goal is to find some for my Olfa that aren't $5 a piece.
Knitting & Crocheting:
Complete all UFOs
Now, my knitting and crocheting UFO listing is not that out of line. I only really acquired UFOs there in the last few years based on a suggestion of having more than one project going when you seem to be flagging. Just doesn't work for me. So, I'm going to focus on finishing.
Cross-Stitching
Finish one project
I have done so little cross-stitching in the last year. I'm going to designate one day a week to doing cross-stitching. Once my knitting UFOs (mostly socks) are completed, I will be doing this a lot more. This is another area where multiple projects just wasn't working for me.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Apple Washcloth
Here's another cute washcloth completed earlier this week just in time to send off to my sister. I'm sure I'll make this pattern again. I used Lion Brand cotton and size 6 circs. Forgot to measure but roughly 8-9 inches square.
Link to pattern used:
http://www.knittingknonsense.com/applecloth.html
Link to pattern used:
http://www.knittingknonsense.com/applecloth.html
Turkey Washcloth (Improved photo)
Same washcloth as before. Turkey shows up much better using the portable Ott light. Definite keeper pattern. I'll be doing this one again.
Here's a link to the pattern.
http://www.knittingknonsense.com/turkeycloth.html
Here's a link to the pattern.
http://www.knittingknonsense.com/turkeycloth.html
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Thundersnow!!
We have our first blizzard of the year now. There's a good 4 inches of fluffy snow in the back yard. Tonight, we will have thundersnow, so Rudolph is going to have to duck. Apparently, we have Texas to blame. They are sending their warm, moist air this way.
I don't have to go anywhere. I don't have to shovel. I am just sitting hear looking at gentle little flakes falling to the ground. I do have to make some candied nuts today, otherwise, I hope to be continuing work on that quilt and figuring out what went wrong with my latest washcloth. It was coming out all wonky shaped, but since it was a mystery, I can't be sure if that was deliberate or not. In any case, I have to practice a few knitted bobbles before redoing them on the washcloth. Mine came out more like tight little knots and that was probably not what was intended.
I don't have to go anywhere. I don't have to shovel. I am just sitting hear looking at gentle little flakes falling to the ground. I do have to make some candied nuts today, otherwise, I hope to be continuing work on that quilt and figuring out what went wrong with my latest washcloth. It was coming out all wonky shaped, but since it was a mystery, I can't be sure if that was deliberate or not. In any case, I have to practice a few knitted bobbles before redoing them on the washcloth. Mine came out more like tight little knots and that was probably not what was intended.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Coughing and I'm SICK of IT!
Whine ahead....
This coughing just never comes to an end. I knew this would happen again. I know it's going to last 5-6 months. I just hate it though because it makes quilting and even sock knitting, really, really hard. Ok..
End of whine.
I've been quilting away on the Winter Fun quilt. Made another mistake that I need to take out, but it looks like I will finally be finished with one side and can move on to the other. I am doing the border last. I seem to have some wavy issues there, so decided to wait until I was complete and work those out before I quilt them. It's a lovely all-over pattern, so any fix will pretty much disappear with the quilting. What is different on this wallhanging than other quilts, is that I'm doing a lot more quilting on it and more patterns. I'm trying out stuff I hadn't done before as well as perfecting that really small stippling.
The Ladybug Afghan is still not done, but close. I have finished all the wings and about 2/3rds of the bodies. I made the bodies in the wrong size, so had to do those over. Still have the flowers and all the wing spots to do. Maybe I'll focus on wing spots tonight as I find them impossible to do as a take-a-long. After that, it's really just a lot of hand sewing. My goal is to finish by the end of the year so that I can start something new.
Already joined Team Minnesota for the Ravolympics in February on Ravelry. I may join more than one group, but this will be the official one. My plans, at this time, are all small knitted projects. I will have a UFO (any pair of unfinished socks), a new toy (robot), and a pet project (a new felted Pi bed using Wendy Johnson's newer pattern). I'm putting all the patterns, tools and yarn into a bright red, zippered tote. Not only will I be able to find it come February, but Polly has not yet figured out how to open this particular tote, so the yarn will remain there. I really do get a lot done during this periods een if I'm not watching it on TV. I get VERY frustrated with the coverage. I missed a major upset the last time in skiing because they cutaway before the event was finished. Arrgggh... I have never skiied (I'm too clumsy and know better), but I love to watch it.
This coughing just never comes to an end. I knew this would happen again. I know it's going to last 5-6 months. I just hate it though because it makes quilting and even sock knitting, really, really hard. Ok..
End of whine.
I've been quilting away on the Winter Fun quilt. Made another mistake that I need to take out, but it looks like I will finally be finished with one side and can move on to the other. I am doing the border last. I seem to have some wavy issues there, so decided to wait until I was complete and work those out before I quilt them. It's a lovely all-over pattern, so any fix will pretty much disappear with the quilting. What is different on this wallhanging than other quilts, is that I'm doing a lot more quilting on it and more patterns. I'm trying out stuff I hadn't done before as well as perfecting that really small stippling.
The Ladybug Afghan is still not done, but close. I have finished all the wings and about 2/3rds of the bodies. I made the bodies in the wrong size, so had to do those over. Still have the flowers and all the wing spots to do. Maybe I'll focus on wing spots tonight as I find them impossible to do as a take-a-long. After that, it's really just a lot of hand sewing. My goal is to finish by the end of the year so that I can start something new.
Already joined Team Minnesota for the Ravolympics in February on Ravelry. I may join more than one group, but this will be the official one. My plans, at this time, are all small knitted projects. I will have a UFO (any pair of unfinished socks), a new toy (robot), and a pet project (a new felted Pi bed using Wendy Johnson's newer pattern). I'm putting all the patterns, tools and yarn into a bright red, zippered tote. Not only will I be able to find it come February, but Polly has not yet figured out how to open this particular tote, so the yarn will remain there. I really do get a lot done during this periods een if I'm not watching it on TV. I get VERY frustrated with the coverage. I missed a major upset the last time in skiing because they cutaway before the event was finished. Arrgggh... I have never skiied (I'm too clumsy and know better), but I love to watch it.
Cat Wash Cloth
Used Lion's kitchen cotton on size 6 circulars. Seed stitch border. OK.. I think it is time to get rid of the sticks. The circs were SO much easier on my arthritic thumbs! I liked this particular cat. It reminded me somewhat of a Siamese and we have been owned by 2 of those in childhood. I plan to do this one again, but in a 2 tone as a hot pad. In any case, this one will also be going to my sister as a test washcloth.
I really, really need to add better lighting. For all 3 of these projects, I plan to add links to the free directions as well as a link to the KAL. You can also access the KAL via Ravelry. Just type in knitdishcloths in the search for Group.
I really, really need to add better lighting. For all 3 of these projects, I plan to add links to the free directions as well as a link to the KAL. You can also access the KAL via Ravelry. Just type in knitdishcloths in the search for Group.
Santa Hat Washcloth
The first of 2 KALs for December. This is a Santa hat made from Sugar and Creme using size 7 needles. Garter stitch border. Cute, cute, cute. This will be going to my sister, who has requested knitted washcloths, as a test item. I previously made her just an ordinary garter stitch diagonal dishcloth and she loved that.
My photo isn't so good, but better than the one I did before. I need to figure out how to get the lighting just right.
My photo isn't so good, but better than the one I did before. I need to figure out how to get the lighting just right.
Turkey Washcloth
I rejoined a washcloth group and I made a turkey for the first project! This was part 1 of 2 washcloths for a November KAL. Made with Lion's kitchen cotton and size 6 needles. Cute, cute, cute. I had given up on picture washcloths before because, well, the picture didn't come out. I am a loose knitter and by going down a couple of sizes, it's coming out perfect.
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Continuing Quilting Projects
Some new purchases and continued slow work on projects.
I am on No Buy for a year at Stashbusters and this includes books. I can buy B's - backing, background and Batting. I'm also on No Buy for books, but for every 2 quilting books I part with, I can get one. I traded off 2 quilting books at PaperbackSwap this week, so I was able to include a new quilting book in my Amazon order. Honestly, I SHOULD get rid of half my quilting books, but that is too painful of a process. I'll go in bits and pieces.
Butterfly Album: Monarchs & More by Bea Oglesby is the only book I've seen that focuses on appliqueing monarchs. Lots of details to add extra pizzaz to even a plain butterfly block, which is what I was looking for. I'm really taking to applique. I just need to spend more time doing it.
For fabric buys, I got some gold background for doing Bonnie's current mystery. I have plenty of Christmas fabrics in red and green, some solids in tan, but I had no gold background. So, now that I have that, I will be able to start cutting by Monday. If you want to participate, here's the link: http://quiltville.com/carolinachristmas1.shtml. Just go at your own pace, she will keep the instructions up until June. To keep the mystery, just don't click on the next step until you are done with the current one.
Mill End still has the 60% coupon thing going on, so my gold background wasn't very expensive at all. My Mom wants me to make her some cotton jammies, so I have to go back next week and select something for her. Of course, since I get the scraps that will likely bias me as to which fabric I will select. :) Hmm...pink, blue, jungle animals? We shall see. Someone emailed me about Mill End Textiles. No, this is not quilt shop fabric. It compares very favorably with the better quality cottons at both Joann's and Hancock's and I don't hesitate to use it, but I wouldn't use it with primarily quilt shop fabrics just because the feel is different.
I'm still working on socks. I hope to get ONE pair done by the end of the year and that will be the pair I just started last week! There is no design to follow. Just straight sock knitting reusing yarn from an earlier project start. Then I will stop trying to participate in the sock KAL and finish all the ones I have started. After all, I really want to wear them while it is cold! I'm beginning to understand why some people now ONLY do the two-at-a-time method! I'm in!
Friday, December 04, 2009
Shopping Continues
Using another Mill End coupon, I bought the background fabric I needed for Bonnie's new Mystery. It's expensive going on No Buy for a year, but by limiting myself to buying only the B's only (background, backing, batting), I'm saving a bundle. I am also on no buy for quilting books, although I will get something quilting related with the Christmas money I have. Honestly, I should really clear out half my book collection because I really don't have the space, but it's hard to give them up.
Spent THREE days fixing the Winter Fun quilt. I did a fabulous job of a shingle pattern on the house roof and then realized that the white roof was supposed to indicate a snowdrift. Had to take it all out and now I'm ready to requilt it tomorrow. I'm free forming various patterns in all the white spaces. Yes, some are leaves because I couldn't think of how to do a feather. My plan for tomorrow is to finish quilting this half and then, pinning the other half. Then I need to spend the rest of the day cleaning up and putting stuff away. Really needs it.
Spent THREE days fixing the Winter Fun quilt. I did a fabulous job of a shingle pattern on the house roof and then realized that the white roof was supposed to indicate a snowdrift. Had to take it all out and now I'm ready to requilt it tomorrow. I'm free forming various patterns in all the white spaces. Yes, some are leaves because I couldn't think of how to do a feather. My plan for tomorrow is to finish quilting this half and then, pinning the other half. Then I need to spend the rest of the day cleaning up and putting stuff away. Really needs it.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Frenzied Shopping
As expected, I joined in on the Day-After-Thanksgiving shopping extravaganza. Resisted a lot, but bought more of what I needed than planned.
Mill End Textiles had a 60% off coupon and 1/2 off most other fabric. Located in MN, WI and the Dakotas, they carry a lot of end-of-run fabrics. You never know what they have. I used my coupon to get an entire bolt of marbled pink quilter's cotton for $2/yard. Also purchased some shirt fabric and a little Oriental fabric to send to a swap hostess who helped me a couple of months ago.
Today (Saturday), I took a run to Joann's. Bought about 6 spools of various cotton threads for 50% off. I was VERY disappointed to discover that they have discontinued literally all name brands of batting. So, from now on if I want something for a bed quilt, I will go elsewhere. I will likely continue to use the Soft and Crafty hi loft for tying, but I know that I will need to get 2 batts when I do. I do use Mountain Mist (the only brand they seem to have kept) for wallhangings. They do have Fairfield 80/20, but I've used it before and prefer Hobbs for my scrap quilts. I continue to get Quilter's Dream at the local quilt shop - that stuff is LUSH. Couldn't find anything to spend my 50% off coupon on so bought another skein of Bernat Sock Yarn. Bought some cute pink stuff too.
After that, I went back to Mill End because I had another 60% off coupon. Found ANOTHER bolt of backing fabric, this time a lovely oriental with pink flowers. The pink in the flowers goes well with the pink I bought yesterday, so this makes an ideal selection for a Reversible quilt. $2 yard. If you compared this fabric with a quilt shop, it is a little thinner. But it does compare favorably with Hancock's and Joann's higher end cottons.
I bought the Nov./Dec. 09 Quiltmaker magazine for the cover quilt (pictured left). I was disappointed to find out that it is done using fusibles. However, I really have to get over my resistance to that technique and just do it. I'll bet this will make a fabulous quilt. On the other hand, I may make the wall quilt to get my feet wet. I'm just resistant because I think that the fusible will make the quilt stiff.
I also like the tree quilt in the same issue (pictured right). My sister has requested some small wall quilts and this one would certainly fit her outdoorsy theme in the living room. This is a crib size, so I'd have to make it a tad smaller, but what a cute way to use up strips of green!
My energy levels have finally picked up from the H1N1, so I'm hoping to get some things accomplished now! Winter Fun is not quite half quilted. I needed some different blue thread to finish the quilting and now that I have it, I can move on with finishing the quilting, so that I can pin the other half.
Mill End Textiles had a 60% off coupon and 1/2 off most other fabric. Located in MN, WI and the Dakotas, they carry a lot of end-of-run fabrics. You never know what they have. I used my coupon to get an entire bolt of marbled pink quilter's cotton for $2/yard. Also purchased some shirt fabric and a little Oriental fabric to send to a swap hostess who helped me a couple of months ago.
Today (Saturday), I took a run to Joann's. Bought about 6 spools of various cotton threads for 50% off. I was VERY disappointed to discover that they have discontinued literally all name brands of batting. So, from now on if I want something for a bed quilt, I will go elsewhere. I will likely continue to use the Soft and Crafty hi loft for tying, but I know that I will need to get 2 batts when I do. I do use Mountain Mist (the only brand they seem to have kept) for wallhangings. They do have Fairfield 80/20, but I've used it before and prefer Hobbs for my scrap quilts. I continue to get Quilter's Dream at the local quilt shop - that stuff is LUSH. Couldn't find anything to spend my 50% off coupon on so bought another skein of Bernat Sock Yarn. Bought some cute pink stuff too.
After that, I went back to Mill End because I had another 60% off coupon. Found ANOTHER bolt of backing fabric, this time a lovely oriental with pink flowers. The pink in the flowers goes well with the pink I bought yesterday, so this makes an ideal selection for a Reversible quilt. $2 yard. If you compared this fabric with a quilt shop, it is a little thinner. But it does compare favorably with Hancock's and Joann's higher end cottons.
I bought the Nov./Dec. 09 Quiltmaker magazine for the cover quilt (pictured left). I was disappointed to find out that it is done using fusibles. However, I really have to get over my resistance to that technique and just do it. I'll bet this will make a fabulous quilt. On the other hand, I may make the wall quilt to get my feet wet. I'm just resistant because I think that the fusible will make the quilt stiff.
I also like the tree quilt in the same issue (pictured right). My sister has requested some small wall quilts and this one would certainly fit her outdoorsy theme in the living room. This is a crib size, so I'd have to make it a tad smaller, but what a cute way to use up strips of green!
My energy levels have finally picked up from the H1N1, so I'm hoping to get some things accomplished now! Winter Fun is not quite half quilted. I needed some different blue thread to finish the quilting and now that I have it, I can move on with finishing the quilting, so that I can pin the other half.
Friday, November 06, 2009
Big Busted is Done!
I've now completed the Big Busted quilt. Final size is about 45 x 65 inches, so a lap quilt. The front was done using only stash during a quilt-a-long at Stashbusters. The batting is sewn together leftover strips from previous projects. All of the batting was the Joann's Hi Loft Soft and Crafty from last year, not the inferior product (IMHO) that is being sold now. I find hand sewing batting strips, especially thick batting strips, much better than machine sewing as it doesn't interfere with the loft. The backing is a royal blue Joann's Snuggle flannel and the binding just a new fabric that brought out the blue tones in the front of the quilt. The primary fabric used in this quilt is the last of my Millennium fabric for the Millennium quilt I was never able to do (due to illness). I was finally able to get past my disappointment of not being able to swap during the 1998-99 period and this project really is what did it for me.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
H1N1 or How My Brain Fried
I thought I had a normal bad cold that turned into the absolute worst sinus infection I have ever had. The headache was so horrible. Doc says it's H1N1. Anyway, I first started getting symptoms 8 days ago and I'm still sick. So, fellow crafters, make sure you have what you need because you will not want to go anywhere while you recuperate.
I finished the binding on the lap quilt I was working on and it is complete. I'll give it its own entry after I have a photo. Other than that, I've been working on swap blocks. I should have read the swap instructions more carefully. I'm virtually making an entire top worth of blocks and this is a bit more work than I was planning. The pattern is Kansas Troubles and I have most of the fabric cut now. Started sewing some HSTs already. My goal is to get these blocks done by Saturday so that I can mail on Monday.
I have done no knitting or crocheting since I got sick. Between being really miserable and now coughing all the time, I just didn't want to deal with it. Handling yarn after you've been coughing a ton is just plain icky.
Being sick is always a good time for a movie marathon, if your head isn't pounding. This time around, I chose the entire Star Wars series. I honestly don't think I saw Episode 3 before, so I'm looking forward to it. I am watching them in the order they came out (i.e. 4, 5, 6, then 1, 2, 3).
I finished the binding on the lap quilt I was working on and it is complete. I'll give it its own entry after I have a photo. Other than that, I've been working on swap blocks. I should have read the swap instructions more carefully. I'm virtually making an entire top worth of blocks and this is a bit more work than I was planning. The pattern is Kansas Troubles and I have most of the fabric cut now. Started sewing some HSTs already. My goal is to get these blocks done by Saturday so that I can mail on Monday.
I have done no knitting or crocheting since I got sick. Between being really miserable and now coughing all the time, I just didn't want to deal with it. Handling yarn after you've been coughing a ton is just plain icky.
Being sick is always a good time for a movie marathon, if your head isn't pounding. This time around, I chose the entire Star Wars series. I honestly don't think I saw Episode 3 before, so I'm looking forward to it. I am watching them in the order they came out (i.e. 4, 5, 6, then 1, 2, 3).
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Other Projects
Alas, due to a family illness, I have completed quite a bit more of the crocheted Ladybug Afghan. Now, all 35 blocks are done as are 9 ladybug bodies and several pairs of wings. I have to do the circles for the wings at home (that black is just hard to crochet in all but bright light), so I am seeing this going along at a quick pace.
I have 4 pairs of socks that will continue to be worked on until done. As far as the From the Top Down KAL on Ravelry, I'm on hold until November and December. During those months, only a basic sock is being done, so I'm pretty confident I can get those done during the month. In fact, one will just be a redo of what I started in August (sock toe was too big so I'll just start over). I really need to find a better backdrop for sock photos though. Hmmm...
After the first of the year, I'll be hanging up the knitting needles and returning to cross-stitching until Summer. Well, yes, I'll finish the started socks, but the rest of my sock yarn will be packed away until I get one or two cross stitch projects completed.
Finally, yes, the quilting projects continue. I just finished tying and trimming a scrap quilt yesterday. Then, I need to work on the quilting for my Mom's winter wallhanging. That won't actually take that long, but because I don't have a lot of pins, it's taking longer than expected. I need to quilt one area, then repin, and it's a pain.
I have 4 pairs of socks that will continue to be worked on until done. As far as the From the Top Down KAL on Ravelry, I'm on hold until November and December. During those months, only a basic sock is being done, so I'm pretty confident I can get those done during the month. In fact, one will just be a redo of what I started in August (sock toe was too big so I'll just start over). I really need to find a better backdrop for sock photos though. Hmmm...
After the first of the year, I'll be hanging up the knitting needles and returning to cross-stitching until Summer. Well, yes, I'll finish the started socks, but the rest of my sock yarn will be packed away until I get one or two cross stitch projects completed.
Finally, yes, the quilting projects continue. I just finished tying and trimming a scrap quilt yesterday. Then, I need to work on the quilting for my Mom's winter wallhanging. That won't actually take that long, but because I don't have a lot of pins, it's taking longer than expected. I need to quilt one area, then repin, and it's a pain.
Train Quilt is Done!
Here's the final photo of the Train Quilt. Hard to get it all to fit in! The primary pattern is Square-in-a-Square. The final measurements are 45x96 inches, perfect for a recliner. I used 2 layers of Soft n Crafty Hi Loft and tied it using Cascade 220 wool yarn. I agree that I didn't trim the blocks correctly, but nobody seems to notice that around here (if you can't see it from the photo, it doesn't exist, right? I used 5 different train fabrics on this (still have one left over to use somewhere else) and as always, I used some solid colored fabric to give the eye some place to rest as well as frame the novelty fabrics. The backing is just a plain brown flannel from Joann's. The kitties, especially Bart, already approve of the quilt.
If you have never done square in a square, here is a link. I recommend making your squares 1/4 inch larger and trim to correct size (1/4 inch beyond edge extra for sewing line).
http://www.allthingsfrugal.com/square.in.a.square.htm
If you have never done square in a square, here is a link. I recommend making your squares 1/4 inch larger and trim to correct size (1/4 inch beyond edge extra for sewing line).
http://www.allthingsfrugal.com/square.in.a.square.htm
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Quilting Projects This Week
First, the Train Quilt was completed last week. We've had a lot of rain, so hopefully, I can post a photo soon. This week, I'm working on 2 quilt projects. One is Big Busted and the other is Winter Fun. Here's a link my original posting of those projects.
http://waytoomuchstash.blogspot.com/2009/05/big-busted-is-busted.html
Big Busted is a finished top from a quilt-a-long at Stashbusters earlier this year. I am piecing together thick batting from tying previous quilts to make a batting for this one. Whatever batting is left over will go into a cat pad for my precious pets. I have one more strip of batting to complete my batting for the center. This part has been a comfy TV project. I have abandoned the idea of using pieced flannel for the back. I don't have enough of coordinating colors and I don't want it to look weird either since this is a lap quilt for the living room. I'll look at Joann's and see what I can find in the way of Snuggle flannel. The scraps will be used in the cat pad.
Winter Fun was a swap from QuiltingAroundTheWorld.com last winter. The top is done, I want to complete the quilt this month. Currently, it is pinned and I've done a small amount of quilting. This will be the first quilt where I'm using different quilting motifs in every block. It will be a wall quilt, so I will be adding a sleeve to the back.
I've had several requests from family members for wall quilts, so I think this winter, I can look forward to a few small projects. My sister threw out ideas such as fish, deer, loons. Her goal is to reduce the sound in her home (lots of wood floors). I do have a pattern for a large deer quilt, but honestly, I don't think that she has a wall that can accommodate it. I have a number of fish quilts I can do including realistic lake/river fish. For my bro, he HAS the wall space, but his interests are hard to gauge. I'm thinking anything forest-like that includes wild animals would work for him. When I get to him, maybe I'll show him some pattern ideas. He likes tapestries without a ton of detail.
Did a couple of other little sewing projects this week. Used some Vikings and U of M Gopher polar fleece to make a kitty pad for my dad's cat (for use while watching games) and a 16 inch square pillow for my BIL. Made a pillow case for my bro that matches the flannel on the back of his winter quilt (the Citrus Stars). The small amounts left over will go into more cat pads.
http://waytoomuchstash.blogspot.com/2009/05/big-busted-is-busted.html
Big Busted is a finished top from a quilt-a-long at Stashbusters earlier this year. I am piecing together thick batting from tying previous quilts to make a batting for this one. Whatever batting is left over will go into a cat pad for my precious pets. I have one more strip of batting to complete my batting for the center. This part has been a comfy TV project. I have abandoned the idea of using pieced flannel for the back. I don't have enough of coordinating colors and I don't want it to look weird either since this is a lap quilt for the living room. I'll look at Joann's and see what I can find in the way of Snuggle flannel. The scraps will be used in the cat pad.
Winter Fun was a swap from QuiltingAroundTheWorld.com last winter. The top is done, I want to complete the quilt this month. Currently, it is pinned and I've done a small amount of quilting. This will be the first quilt where I'm using different quilting motifs in every block. It will be a wall quilt, so I will be adding a sleeve to the back.
I've had several requests from family members for wall quilts, so I think this winter, I can look forward to a few small projects. My sister threw out ideas such as fish, deer, loons. Her goal is to reduce the sound in her home (lots of wood floors). I do have a pattern for a large deer quilt, but honestly, I don't think that she has a wall that can accommodate it. I have a number of fish quilts I can do including realistic lake/river fish. For my bro, he HAS the wall space, but his interests are hard to gauge. I'm thinking anything forest-like that includes wild animals would work for him. When I get to him, maybe I'll show him some pattern ideas. He likes tapestries without a ton of detail.
Did a couple of other little sewing projects this week. Used some Vikings and U of M Gopher polar fleece to make a kitty pad for my dad's cat (for use while watching games) and a 16 inch square pillow for my BIL. Made a pillow case for my bro that matches the flannel on the back of his winter quilt (the Citrus Stars). The small amounts left over will go into more cat pads.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Ladybug square
After more than a year of working on this afghan, I have finally completed one ladybug! Sorry for the washed out appearance. I guess I need to take these photos outside during the DAY! This ladybug has a very 3 dimensional look to it and is just so darn cute. There is also a 3 dimensional daisy square, but it just doesn't show up at all with a flash. After counting, I still have one more white square to do (darn it all!), but my current goal is to complete this project before the end of the year. I'll continue to treat it as a take-a-long project until December, but then finish anything remaining.
This adorable crocheted ladybug is a purchased pattern by Maggie Weldon. You can get it at www.maggiescrochet.com.
This adorable crocheted ladybug is a purchased pattern by Maggie Weldon. You can get it at www.maggiescrochet.com.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Knitting and quilting (again)
First, so sorry I haven't posted recently. I hate to put posts without photos and I've had a lot of computer problems since the resent upgrade. Things aren't quite right yet, but at least internet access seems to be stable.
First, I'll start with the knitting. I'm making Trilobites from Wendy Johnson's book, Socks From the Toe Up. I can see that participating in a sock contest that only lasts a month just doesn't work for me. I am about 2 inches shy of finishing the FIRST sock, so clearly, once again, I will not be able to enter the contest for prizes on Ravelry. Lovely sock though and I will likely make this again in future. Nice and stretchy and the yarn works absolutely perfectly with the pattern. I'm using Knit Picks superwash in Tuscany and size 0 needles (Knitpicks nickle circs). I've concluded that the only contest I will likely be able to actually FINISH a pair is the one in November or December that uses just the basic pattern in stockinette. Anyway, I will continue to work on these and the other unfinished ones. I need some done socks before it gets too cold!
On to crochet! No photos right now, but did want to say that I've finished about 80% of the Ladybug Crocheted afghan. I discovered I have 2 squares left to do, but have already started the flowers. I get to sit at a long medical appointment next week, so really need to make up ONE ladybug before the staff threatens my coffee supply. They watch this thing getting worked on, square by square, every time I am there. I had expected to actually be completed in June, but what with fewer appointments, that hasn't been happening. It's really hard though. I want to get it done, but it is my take-a-long project and I have nothing else exactly lined up once I start putting the blocks together, so I'll just keep plugging along.
Next, on to quilting. The train quilt is rapidly reaching completion. Here it was late last week on my 'tying' table. I misplaced my little Fiskars, so had to use my dressmaking shears, but otherwise, it went well. Took just shy of 15 hours to tie and make the binding. I know this because I was listening to the audio version of The Hunt for Red October, which is 15 hours long. Great story! I saw the movie and that was fabulous,but I completely understand why this story catapulted Tom Clancy's writing career.
Here is my helper, Polly, who absolutely adores helping tying quilts. If she isn't napping where I'm working, she is running off with yarn balls. Here's the kitty, tired out from chasing yarn balls. As you more experienced quilters can see, I really should have trimmed these blocks so that the corners met, but I decided to just leave them. Next time, I will REMEMBER to trim them because the quilter in me knows it really does look better with matched corners.
QuiltingAroundTheWorld.com has a new quilt-a-long. Pick a quilt swap that you participated in on that board and finish the quilt in a month. So, for October, I'm picking Winter Fun. This swap was done last winter. This is about 52 inches square and I plan to hang this vs. using it as a lap quilt. Bought some cute snowman fabric for the back today and plan to pin tomorrow (have to find my box of pins!). This will have different types of quilting depending on the block. What did I make for this swap? The windmills (top row, 2nd block) and the rail fence (bottom row, 2nd block).
I'll try to be better about updates. As we approach Winter and the end of the allergy season, I hope that I will be able to get more accomplished!
First, I'll start with the knitting. I'm making Trilobites from Wendy Johnson's book, Socks From the Toe Up. I can see that participating in a sock contest that only lasts a month just doesn't work for me. I am about 2 inches shy of finishing the FIRST sock, so clearly, once again, I will not be able to enter the contest for prizes on Ravelry. Lovely sock though and I will likely make this again in future. Nice and stretchy and the yarn works absolutely perfectly with the pattern. I'm using Knit Picks superwash in Tuscany and size 0 needles (Knitpicks nickle circs). I've concluded that the only contest I will likely be able to actually FINISH a pair is the one in November or December that uses just the basic pattern in stockinette. Anyway, I will continue to work on these and the other unfinished ones. I need some done socks before it gets too cold!
On to crochet! No photos right now, but did want to say that I've finished about 80% of the Ladybug Crocheted afghan. I discovered I have 2 squares left to do, but have already started the flowers. I get to sit at a long medical appointment next week, so really need to make up ONE ladybug before the staff threatens my coffee supply. They watch this thing getting worked on, square by square, every time I am there. I had expected to actually be completed in June, but what with fewer appointments, that hasn't been happening. It's really hard though. I want to get it done, but it is my take-a-long project and I have nothing else exactly lined up once I start putting the blocks together, so I'll just keep plugging along.
Next, on to quilting. The train quilt is rapidly reaching completion. Here it was late last week on my 'tying' table. I misplaced my little Fiskars, so had to use my dressmaking shears, but otherwise, it went well. Took just shy of 15 hours to tie and make the binding. I know this because I was listening to the audio version of The Hunt for Red October, which is 15 hours long. Great story! I saw the movie and that was fabulous,but I completely understand why this story catapulted Tom Clancy's writing career.
Here is my helper, Polly, who absolutely adores helping tying quilts. If she isn't napping where I'm working, she is running off with yarn balls. Here's the kitty, tired out from chasing yarn balls. As you more experienced quilters can see, I really should have trimmed these blocks so that the corners met, but I decided to just leave them. Next time, I will REMEMBER to trim them because the quilter in me knows it really does look better with matched corners.
QuiltingAroundTheWorld.com has a new quilt-a-long. Pick a quilt swap that you participated in on that board and finish the quilt in a month. So, for October, I'm picking Winter Fun. This swap was done last winter. This is about 52 inches square and I plan to hang this vs. using it as a lap quilt. Bought some cute snowman fabric for the back today and plan to pin tomorrow (have to find my box of pins!). This will have different types of quilting depending on the block. What did I make for this swap? The windmills (top row, 2nd block) and the rail fence (bottom row, 2nd block).
I'll try to be better about updates. As we approach Winter and the end of the allergy season, I hope that I will be able to get more accomplished!
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
More Socks
I have finally finished one of my On Hold Socks. I dropped a stitch on the heel and could NOT figure out how to eliminate the hole (it was a wrap stitch), so am ripping back.
For the Socks From the Toe Up KAL, I started these Trilobite socks yesterday. Have finished the toe and a first run through the chart. Really does lovely things with this yarn. I'm using Tuscany Multi in Knit Picks Essentials sock yarn. I am using a small size 1 (2.25 mm) circular to knit this. I have one mistake (left in), but find the only problem I have is a tendency to have laddering on the side that I am beginning the pattern. Seems to fix itself though.
For the Socks From the Toe Up KAL, I started these Trilobite socks yesterday. Have finished the toe and a first run through the chart. Really does lovely things with this yarn. I'm using Tuscany Multi in Knit Picks Essentials sock yarn. I am using a small size 1 (2.25 mm) circular to knit this. I have one mistake (left in), but find the only problem I have is a tendency to have laddering on the side that I am beginning the pattern. Seems to fix itself though.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Knitting and Quilting
Sorry, it's been a bit since I posted. Haven't been getting a lot of needlework done, but mostly because it has all been taken up with socks and just feeling out of sorts. I have yet to finish a pair, but I have 4 pair of socks on different needles. Let's focus on the currently active pair. I am making the "On Hold" pattern from Wendy Johnson's Socks from the Toe Up. As much as I love the result, I detest working on lace. I may appreciate the lacemaking after I am more familiar with the toe up process. I do love working on circulars and may never pick up my double pointed needles again.
Progress from July 2009. Shows the pattern very nicely.
This shows my progress today. Sorry for washed out photo. As you can see, I finished the heel and about 3 inches of the ankle of one sock. The other is waiting for me to start the heel. Done on separate circs as I still haven't quite figured out how to work them on one set of circs yet. These are running just a little big. Next time I have a 66 stitch sock, I'm dropping a few stitches. I'm using size 0 circs and just am not going to go to any lower sizes. Too hard to pick up dropped stitches.
As always, a needed pet photo. Here is Polly in the window well of my craft room. That is a Mile A Minute afghan she is laying on. I'm also thrilled to pieces about the new window. I can finally open AND close the window instead of opening and having to use a hammer to close it. Don't have to put plastic on it either - no drafts.
Finally, here is part of the now completed Train Quilt top. This quilt is for my Dad to use in his recliner as he often sleeps there, so it is specially sized. I bought the binding today and still need to sew the backing together and find some red wool yarn. I hope to start tying it some time this week. To you quilters reading my blog: I completely agree with you. I should have cut the square-in-the-squares smaller so that the corners just met. However, non-quilters don't even notice, so I'm not going to either. Next time, I will do it right. I was able to use all but one of my train fabrics in some way in this quilt. The final one is going to be used to make a matching remote control holder. Whatever is left over, I plan to trade off to someone. I have SO much fabric, I decided not to quibble over scraps - trade the leftover novelties off for something I can use and someone else will benefit from these now out-of-print fabrics.
Progress from July 2009. Shows the pattern very nicely.
This shows my progress today. Sorry for washed out photo. As you can see, I finished the heel and about 3 inches of the ankle of one sock. The other is waiting for me to start the heel. Done on separate circs as I still haven't quite figured out how to work them on one set of circs yet. These are running just a little big. Next time I have a 66 stitch sock, I'm dropping a few stitches. I'm using size 0 circs and just am not going to go to any lower sizes. Too hard to pick up dropped stitches.
As always, a needed pet photo. Here is Polly in the window well of my craft room. That is a Mile A Minute afghan she is laying on. I'm also thrilled to pieces about the new window. I can finally open AND close the window instead of opening and having to use a hammer to close it. Don't have to put plastic on it either - no drafts.
Finally, here is part of the now completed Train Quilt top. This quilt is for my Dad to use in his recliner as he often sleeps there, so it is specially sized. I bought the binding today and still need to sew the backing together and find some red wool yarn. I hope to start tying it some time this week. To you quilters reading my blog: I completely agree with you. I should have cut the square-in-the-squares smaller so that the corners just met. However, non-quilters don't even notice, so I'm not going to either. Next time, I will do it right. I was able to use all but one of my train fabrics in some way in this quilt. The final one is going to be used to make a matching remote control holder. Whatever is left over, I plan to trade off to someone. I have SO much fabric, I decided not to quibble over scraps - trade the leftover novelties off for something I can use and someone else will benefit from these now out-of-print fabrics.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Sock Knitting!
First, I had to abandon my previous socks as they were too big. I still plan to do them with that yarn, but just a temporary hold. In the meantime, I started my sock for the Socks From The Toe Up monthly challenge at Ravelry. This group is devoted to Wendy's patterns, both published and free on the net. This month it is Lace Ribbing. I'm using a Palette yarn from Knit Picks for this first challenge and size 1 needles. I don't know why I had so much trouble with the toe. I restarted 6 times and gave it a rest and then did it again twice this morning before I got it right. It still isn't perfect (I had to add some rows to have 32 stitches on both needles), but damnit, I'm not starting it again!
As I learned from the other sock, I have loose gauge, so am just following the instructions for a regular 8.5 inch sock. Then I'll check the fit and adjust if need be. I just can't knit 8 stitches to the inch and I can't knit with those 00 needles either. So, it's either 1 or 0 and I'll enjoy myself. I do plan to get circs later on so that I can knit with 2 circs instead, but I'm comfortable with doublepointeds. I do find it impossible to knit while watching TV. These no-line bifocals are just at the wrong level for my knitting and it's annoying. I just take my glasses off to knit. I am getting new frames for my other lenses (the ones for cross-stitching) and then I probably will have less problems. Gives me an excuse to listen to my audiobook.
As I learned from the other sock, I have loose gauge, so am just following the instructions for a regular 8.5 inch sock. Then I'll check the fit and adjust if need be. I just can't knit 8 stitches to the inch and I can't knit with those 00 needles either. So, it's either 1 or 0 and I'll enjoy myself. I do plan to get circs later on so that I can knit with 2 circs instead, but I'm comfortable with doublepointeds. I do find it impossible to knit while watching TV. These no-line bifocals are just at the wrong level for my knitting and it's annoying. I just take my glasses off to knit. I am getting new frames for my other lenses (the ones for cross-stitching) and then I probably will have less problems. Gives me an excuse to listen to my audiobook.
Square In A Square
Yes, focus is my problem. Natch. Anyway, I did 2 sample blocks for my Dad's Train quilt and they look pretty nifty. The red has tracks in it. I like it fine, but it just seems to lack pop. Not sure yet what I will do, but I still have 3 other train fabrics to incorporate into this thing. My Square in a Squares are actually too generous, so I might have to cut that some. As this quilt is for sleeping in the recliner, I'm limited to 50 x 100 inches. A little awkward, but a regular twin is too wide.
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